Cold Weather Safety Tips for Seniors
Does the senior in your life or do you or your loved one complain about being cold, especially during winter? That’s because aging skin is thinner and less likely to tolerate fluctuating temperatures. Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, thyroid disease, diabetes and hypertension can affect blood circulation, making it difficult for someone to feel their hands, feet and limbs getting cold.
If your loved one lives in an area of the country that has cold weather during winter, be sure to have a plan in place to keep them safe from the season’s chill.
3 Components of a Cold-Weather Safety Plan
Download Your Cold-Weather Safety Plan
Use our checklists to ensure you or your loved one is ready for cold weather. On the reverse side add your emergency contacts, evacuation plan and additional home care services you may need during this time.
Dangers of Cold Weather
If a person’s body temperature drops much below 98.6° F, dangerous health problems can arise, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, liver damage, and heart attack. Hypothermia sets in when a person’s body temperature falls below 95° F. Left untreated, hypothermia can shut down the body’s heart and respiratory systems and lead to death.
Need extra home care help during the cold-weather months? We can help.
Our trained caregivers can check in on you or your loved one and help with other homemaking or personal care support you may need. Contact us today to learn more.